A stress test, also known as an exercise stress test, is a medical test used to evaluate the heart's ability to function during physical activity. It is a non-invasive test that involves measuring the heart's electrical activity, heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs while the patient is exercising on a treadmill or stationary bike.
During a stress test, the patient is connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG) machine, which records the electrical activity of the heart. The patient begins by exercising on the treadmill or stationary bike at a low intensity, and the intensity of the exercise is gradually increased over time.
A stress test can help diagnose various heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and heart valve problems. It can also help assess the effectiveness of treatments for these conditions and determine the patient's risk for future heart problems.
A stress test may be recommended if someone is experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations, or if they have risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease. It can help diagnose or evaluate conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, and arrhythmias.
During a stress test, the patient is connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG) machine and exercises on a treadmill or stationary bike while the healthcare provider monitors their heart rate, blood pressure, ECG readings, and symptoms.